Thanks in large part to a career night from Derrick White, the San Antonio Spurs walked away from their Game 3 matchup against the Denver Nuggets with a 118-108 victory.
White logged 33 minutes in Game 3, scoring a playoff career-high of 36 points on 15-of-21 shooting from the field (1-of-4 from beyond the arc), five assists, five rebounds, three steals and one block.
During his post-game media availability, White noted that his time in the G League prepared him for such an occasion:
“How much does this game show your maturity and your development as a basketball player?” a reporter asked White following Thursday night's game.
“I think the G League last year was huge. Everybody said I didn't have playoff experience, but I did this in the G League… Just kidding,” White replied, flashing a quick smile. “It was big for my development, as far as what works and doesn't work.”
Hoops fans weren't the only ones who were impressed by White's breakout game. Nuggets head coach Mike Malone says he heard the message loud and clear:
“There's no doubt in my mind that Derrick White, the last couple of days, has been reminded about Jamal Murray's fourth-quarter performance [in Game 2],” Malone told ESPN after Game 3. “Derrick White came out like he hadn't eaten in two days.
“He came out hungry. He came out pissed off. And he sent a very loud and clear message.”
The Spurs and Nuggets will meet for Game 4 on Saturday evening. Tip-off inside the AT&T Center is set for 5:30 p.m. ET, with TNT having live broadcast coverage. San Antonio is currently leading the series, 2-1.
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